This was decided in a meeting held between Electricity Minister Saurabh Patel, Urban Development Minister I K Jadeja and Mr Modi.

The decision to give exemption was taken after ministers represented the losses and difficulties suffered by the powerloom units. Based on that, the government has decided to give an exemption of 30 per cent in electricity bills from August 1, 2000 to September 30, to the owners of powerloom units.

''This decision will breathe a new life into powerloom sector, generating employment opportunities for six lakh workers,'' Mr Patel told reporters after the meeting.